New Victoria Theatre, Woking – until 23 March 2019
Reviewed by Becky Doyle
4****
An absolutely fantastic show with colour, vibrancy and a great atmosphere. For someone who has only seen the film once way back when, I was instantly absorbed into the 60’s with the swing dancing and jazz. Simone Covele (Penny) had legs that went on for miles and her precision and dance skill was mesmerizing with your eyes always gravitating in her direction in group dances.
Kira Malou (Frances ‘Baby’) was most certainly not put in any corner through out the show. She had the perfect balance between a young 17-year-old girl from a privileged background and a hungry teenager who has their first experiences of love, lust and rebellion. The innocence of Baby and her kind, trust worthy nature were portrayed excellently and her chemistry with Michael O’Reilly (Jonny Castle) was by far the reason why this show was such a success.
Michael, had the audience transfixed. His tone, manner and body were all that was needed to keep the people around me glued to the stage. He had a presence that made you fall in love with him and made (on occasions) audience members heckle and cheer him on from their seats.
The set was spectacular and the space of the stage used to the fullest as well as costumes and props. The water scene in particular was imaginative and had the audience humouring the creativity behind it. I really cannot fault any aspect of the show, the music was with its times and Alex Wheeler (Billy Kostecki) had the most amazing voice, his solo performance in particular was a highlight of the show. The finishing scene and final dance was spectacular and one that was eagerly anticipated from the start and it didn’t disappoint. This is a feel good show that absorbs you from start to finish.